Costa Rica’s National Commission of Risk Prevention and Emergency Response (CNE) has declared an emergency after a vessel carrying around 180 tonnes of ammonium nitrate sank off the port of Puntarenas on the country’s Pacific coast on May 3.
CNE initially issued a red alert, advising people not to swim or fish in the affected region. However, following an inspection, the region was cleared of swimming and fishing restrictions.
The vessel, identified by CNA as the boat Fertica, remains a threat to the environment and will be removed.
The authorities will be monitoring the vessel for any signs of fuel leaks. The yellow alert will remain in force until May 6.
Two crew members aboard the Fertica at the time of the accident were rescued and are unharmed, CNE said.
Ammonium nitrate is used in production of fertilizers and explosives and can be a health risk if a person comes in a direct contact with the chemical.
World Maritime News Staff